29-9-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) As Malaysia prepares to take the helm of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2025, the country has outlined its vision for strengthening the bloc’s role in shaping the future of the Asia-Pacific region. Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, addressing the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) General Debate on Saturday, emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to fostering resilience, inclusivity, and regional peace amidst growing geopolitical uncertainties.
“Malaysia stands ready to assume the Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025, fully aware of our responsibility to reassert ASEAN’s pivotal role in steering the Asia-Pacific region,” Mohamad declared. He underscored the nation’s dedication to propelling ASEAN towards future readiness, with a focus on reinforcing global aspirations, implementing people-driven policies, and establishing forward-looking mechanisms.
In an era marked by intensifying superpower rivalries and shifting geopolitical landscapes, Mohamad highlighted the critical need to safeguard ASEAN’s centrality in the region. “Our aim is to fortify ASEAN centrality amidst the emergence of multilateral pacts affecting the region,” he stated, emphasising the importance of preventing Southeast Asia from becoming entangled in unnecessary rivalries or potential escalations.
The Foreign Minister placed particular emphasis on ASEAN’s role in managing tensions in the South China Sea, identifying it as a key priority under Malaysia’s leadership. Calling for adherence to international law, Mohamad urged all nations to respect the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in matters of maritime governance.
“The South China Sea, with its rich resources and vital shipping lanes, has become a flashpoint of rising geopolitical tensions,” Mohamad observed. “We must collectively pursue a vision of this body of water as a zone of peace, stability, and cooperation. Prioritising peaceful coexistence through diplomacy and dialogue is essential to prevent further escalation.”
Addressing the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, Mohamad reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to collaborating with fellow ASEAN member states in providing humanitarian assistance and adhering to the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus (5PCs) to seek solutions to the conflict. “We will push for stronger humanitarian assistance and adherence to the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus in our efforts to resolve the situation,” he assured.
The Foreign Minister also celebrated ASEAN’s diversity as a source of strength, enabling the region to build bridges and foster dialogue with global partners. Mohamad articulated Malaysia’s vision for a peaceful and prosperous region, stating, “Malaysia will strive to realise our common desire and collective will to live in a region of lasting peace, security, and stability, sustained economic growth, social progress, and ultimately, shared prosperity.”
This year’s UNGA General Debate theme, “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations,” resonates strongly with Malaysia’s aspirations for its ASEAN leadership role.
